Common Queries for Le French Teacher
Everything You Need to Know
Do you have a specific teaching qualification?
I initially began teaching French in 2004 at a private school when the French teacher there suddenly quit. I taught French as a second language at that school and my only qualification at the time was that I spoke French. Since then I obtained my two-year Bachelor of Education at the University of Calgary. I was promptly hired by a large school board. I have taught in both the French Immersion and the FSL programs, with FSL being my favourite. I use the AIM Language Learning program and I love bringing students from absolute beginner to French conversationalists.
How do you charge for your teaching services?
This season, Le French Teacher is pleased to offer prospective students a financing program that reflects a Pay What You Like model. Although the cost of private classes might be prohibitive for many, Le French Teacher hopes to make French accessible to all families. In order to welcome students at every financial level, we invite parents to make regular payments to the program as they would any other extra-curricular program within their budget. This model allows each family to evaluate the suitability of the program for their children. Everyone benefits when students are excited to learn and parents are pleased with the value of their investment. Payment for classes is received on a weekly, monthly or per class basis. Receipts will be issued the first week of the month for the previous month’s payments.
Where do you hold your teaching sessions?
Currently, classes are held in my home located in the community of Glendale, close to Sarcee Trail and 17 Ave SW. A second location may be added for the 2022/23 term.
Where did you learn your French? Do you teach Quebec French or France French?
I began speaking French in kindergarten when my parents enrolled me in French immersion. I continued in French immersion until the end of high school and then again in university where I completed my education degree in French.
As for France versus Quebec French, I find it interesting how often this question comes up. Like British English versus American English, it's all English with little differences (ie. petrol vs. gas). In school, my teachers spoke in more of a Parisian way and that is closer to the French I speak. Again, the differences are small - certain words are more common to one region than the other.
Should my child wear a mask?
Masks should not be worn as they hinder communication. In order to learn how to form words, the learner should be able to see their instructors mouth. Conversely, the teacher should be able to see the mouth of the learner. Additionally, masks hinder the ability to hear the proper pronunciation of words.
I appreciate that there are parents and children who are uncomfortable participating without a mask. In such instances, online learning is likely a better option. I am happy to refer parents who seek an online option.
What is AIM Language Learning?
I have been using the AIM program since 2015 with tremendous success. The AIM method was developed in Canada by Wendy Maxwell and her program is now used around the world. It is a gesture based language learning program which emphasizes speaking and progresses into reading and writing.
Do you offer classes for more experienced French learners.
Currently I offer classes for beginners. Those who are current or recent French Immersion students, or those who are already conversational in French, would likely not gain enough from my current offering. As my program grows I will be adding class options. Feel free to email me at nick@debrey.ca and I will add you to a list of those to contact when I add to my course offerings.